Prof Motaung served as Chair holder of the Female Academic Leaders Fellowship/Financial Research and Entrepreneurship Foundation – Nelson Mandela University Research Chair in Entrepreneurship and Financial Inclusion, where she led transformative research that bridged innovation, commercialisation and entrepreneurship. She was also the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Global Health Biotech (Pty) Ltd, best known for developing La-Africa Soother – a plant-based anti-inflammatory ointment derived from indigenous medicinal plants – and a shining example of how scientific discovery can be translated into sustainable, real-world health solutions.
With over 26 years of experience in higher education, Prof Motaung dedicated her life to bridging the gap between scientific discovery and societal impact. She was a tireless advocate for women in STEAMI (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics, and Innovation), mentoring several emerging researchers and entrepreneurs.
Her leadership and influence extended well beyond the academy. Prof Motaung held several prominent national roles, including Chairperson of the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) South Africa, Chairperson of Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) Community of Practice for Entrepreneurship Research, Chair of the National Intellectual Property Management Office’s Advisory Board, and Board Member of the Technology Innovation Agency. As a Research Fellow at the School for Data Science and Computational Thinking at Stellenbosch University, she continued to champion interdisciplinary collaboration and data-driven innovation.
Prof Motaung’s passing is a profound loss to the scientific community, to higher education and to all at Nelson Mandela University who were inspired by her vision, intellect and humanity. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations of researchers, innovators and changemakers committed to advancing inclusive, impactful science.
Nelson Mandela University extends its heartfelt condolences to her family, colleagues, students and all who were touched by her remarkable life and work.
May her pioneering spirit continue to guide us in building a more equitable, innovative and compassionate world.